Physiology Of Pregnancy

Question 1

Give 10 common symptoms of pregnancy.

Answer 1

• sickness
• nausea
• stretch marks
• flushing
• anaemia
• glucoseuria
• shortness of breath
• breast growth
• constipation
• swollen ankles

Question 2

What changes occur to the skin during pregnancy?

Answer 2

Pigmentation of the skin increases leading to flushing. Linea nigra frequently occur on the stomach as the foetus develops. Strae gravidarum frequently occur and hair growth may increase.

Question 3

Why may women become short of breath during pregnancy?

Answer 3

• the diaphragm is restricted by the growing foetus
• increased O2 demand by developing foetus
• mother must rid of CO2 for both herself and the foetus

Question 4

How does cardiac output change within pregnancy?

Answer 4

Cardiac output must increase during pregnancy due to increased oxygen demand from the foetus and increased blood volume.

Question 5

Why does anaemia frequently occur in pregnancy?

Answer 5

Iron already in the blood is diluted due to the increased blood plasma volume.

Question 6

How is the renal system affected during pregnancy?

Answer 6

Blood flow to the kidneys doubles. The glomerulus is under high demand to filter increased blood flow. Body is unable to absorb as much which means that urine output increases and substances such as protein and glucose are frequently found within the urine.

Question 7

Why do women typically put on weight during pregnancy? Give 5 factors leading to weight gain.

Answer 7

1. Mass of growing foetus
2. Placenta
3. Increased blood volume
4. Maturing breasts
5. Excess fluid in the body

Question 8

How much weight do women typically put on during pregnancy?

Answer 8

12.5kg.